Cycling: Boardman wins the world title: English pursuit superiority

Robin Nichol
Tuesday 16 August 1994 23:02 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

CHRIS BOARDMAN again waved the flag for Britain when he added the world 4,000 metres pursuit crown to his Olympic title here last night.

The Merseysider, who made Tour de France history last month as the first Briton to wear the yellow jersey of race- leader for three days, was back on the success trail over the 400m open-air track.

'This one was special for me because from now on the world pursuit title is no longer a first objective,' he said. 'I want to make a career in the Tour de France.'

On the Lotus machine he rode to Olympic victory, Boardman was soon in charge in the final against his GAN team-mate, Francis Moreau of France.

He clocked 4min 27.742sec to win by more than 11 seconds, and as he started his final lap he punched the air. Then as he headed for the line he waved to the crowd.

'It looks like I was cruising all the way but you never know when something can happen. I was just showing off when I punched the air. It was an ego trip because I knew the title was in the bag.'

An hour before, in the semi- finals, Boardman beat Jens Lehmann of Germany, his victim in the Olympic final in Barcelona.

For Graeme Obree, the reigning champion until last night, there was only the possibility of court action, following Monday's disqualification.

The Scotsman was less than four minutes into his first race when he was disqualified for his 'downhill skier' riding position. Officials said that they could not see daylight between his arms and chest.

Obree's sponsor is consulting lawyers to see if there is a legal basis to sue the sport's governing body, the UCI.

Jim White, page 14

Results, Sporting Digest, page 31

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in